Executive Leadership Of The Pan African Chamber Of Commerce
Who we are
The leadership team of the Pan African Chamber of Commerce is a partnership to develop and expand a network of leaders in the business, government and community sectors who are prepared to address the unique challenges of economic development in Africa.
The leadership team also acts as corporate think tank to help the chamber to strategically impact our communities by creating jobs via supporting small to medium enterprises Africa.
The mission of the leadership team is to develop and provide leadership to work jointly with the business, community, and government interests to ensure balanced decision-making in maintaining Africa’s vitality and liveability.
They facilitate among others:
Executive relationships with local and international stakeholders.
Strategic leadership and implementation.
Mentorship to the members of the Pan African Chamber of Commerce and other small business owners to become active in civic activities that will meet the changing demands on our local communities.
Johnny Muteba
(South Africa): Founder and Chief Executive Officer
Johnny Muteba founded the Pan African Chamber of Commerce in 2015 in Johannesburg/South Africa. He has over 15 years of work experience in media, entertainment, entrepreneurship, trade, social impact, and human rights.
He is a global thought leader with a proven track record of leading multicultural teams and delivering outstanding results and as an in-depth understanding of business networking, negotiations, relationships, and project management. Johnny’s work is inspired by his responsibility to Africa. He has a very special ability to connect entrepreneurial vision, creative passion, and innovative problem-solving.
His enthusiasm and experience provide compelling insights, interesting ideas, and refreshing approaches which are so desperately needed today. Johnny offers a broad range of professional services for artists, corporations, universities, and Governments. Across all that he does, he taps into the power of creativity to innovate lives, bottom lines, organizations, and the communities that sustain us.
The Pan African Chamber of Commerce is currently active in more than 45 countries in Africa and is also in the United States and Europe. He is a member of the World Trade Organization/International Chamber of Commerce committee on medium and small enterprises advisory committee He is also the founder of the Women Entrepreneurship Centre, and the American Arts Academy.
Professor Byron E.Price
(United States): President
Byron E. Price, Ph.D., is a professor of public administration at Medgar Evers College of the City University of New York in Brooklyn and the former Lillie and Nathan Ackerman Chair of Social Justice at Baruch College—an Endowed Visiting Professor position in the Center on Equality, Pluralism, and Policy. He is the Strategic Diplomatic Officer for Political Cooperation for the African Union, African Diaspora Sixth Region High Council Headquarters in the Hague, Netherlands.
Dr. Price’s dedication to lifelong learning and his global perspective are evident in his extensive travel. He has visited over 120 countries, all 50 US states, and all seven continents, underscoring his commitment to understanding diverse cultures and perspectives.
Dr. Price’s unwavering commitment to Africa’s development is a source of inspiration. His research focuses on social impact investment and emphasizes long-term investment in strategic economic sectors that create economic prosperity and social wealth.
He is the former Global Vice President of the world-renowned Nekotech Center of Excellence, founded by the late US mega-Grammy and Oscar-winning Isaac Hayes, and the globally esteemed Her Excellency Rev. Dr. Ocansey of the Ocansey Royal Family of Ghana. He also co-convenes the historic Africa-US Presidential Forum on STEM/AI/ MBA.
Professor Price is also the former US President of African Views Organization, a nonprofit international NGO with consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council.
Dr. Price’s extensive experience has shaped his epistemology. He has held numerous leadership positions, including serving as the Barbara Jordan Institute of Policy Research director and an associate professor of political science in the Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs at Texas Southern University (TSU) in Houston, Texas. His five years at Rutgers University-Newark at the School of Public Affairs and Administration were marked by his service as an assistant professor of public administration and director of the MPA and Executive MPA Programs. Other leadership positions at Rutgers included the Associate Director of the National Center for Public Performance and Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Public Management and Social Policy.
Before beginning his academic career, Byron served in the United States Army as Deputy Commander, Executive Officer, and Training Officer at Fort Sill, OK, covering the Desert Storm operation. He honorably separated in 1991 and achieved the rank of Captain. A leading scholar in the field of prison privatization, he is the author of the book Merchandizing Prisoners: Who Pays for Prison Privatization, published by Praeger Publishers in March 2006, and the coedited 3-volume set entitled “Prison Privatization: The Many Facets of a Controversial Industry” by Praeger Publishers, September 2012.
Throughout Dr. Price’s 40+ year career, he has held many positions across multiple fields, including Doctor of Public Policy and Administration, Honorary Ambassador, Strategic Diplomatic Officer for Political Cooperation, Professor, Dean, Director, Captain in the United States Army, Global Advisor, Research Fellow, Author, Lecturer, and Speaker. Dr. Price holds a Doctor of Philosophy and Public Policy and Administration from Mississippi State University, a Master of Business Administration from Oklahoma City University, and a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Public Administration from Texas Southern University. During his distinguished career, he has focused on Public Policy, Social Impact Investment, Prison privatization, Prisoner Reentry, Mass Incarceration, Race and Gender, Social Justice, Workforce Development, and Social Entrepreneurship.
Professor Price is a highly sought-after and award-winning speaker and expert on implementing ecologically conscious infrastructure and restructuring efforts in Africa. NASDAQ corporations have tapped Price to evaluate and develop new relationships in Africa.
Dr. Price’s commitment to building sustainable relationships is further demonstrated in his work on public-private partnerships. As a published and respected author in this field, he is on a quest to build bridges that mutually benefit African and US foreign policies.
He is committed to ensuring the safe and effective facilitation of STEM/AI/MBA programs, which he sees as the golden key to catapulting Africa and the US into an era of unprecedented growth and prosperity.
Cheryl Phoenix
(UK/GHANA): Vice President
Cheryl Phoenix is an award-winning, serial entrepreneur, who has over two decades of experience in business sales business development, senior account management, marketing, and event management. Cheryl owns several businesses and brands including The Black Child Agenda and The African Child Agenda. Over the years, Cheryl has overcome many adversities, including losing her business and life partner, back in early 2007. Having to rebuild her life and businesses; Against all odds, Cheryl has become one of the most influential people in her field.
Cheryl’s history started her journey within Corporate UK in the Docklands, for one of the largest UK-based American companies. She soon out-grew her time there by exceeding all account management expectations. She then moved over to the Daily Mail Group (DMG Media) to become a senior event manager. Cheryl worked on some of the world’s largest international exhibitions and conferences in the UK, USA & UAE. Cheryl was soon headhunted by some of the largest corporate companies to help build their brands, and accounts and increase sales revenue.
Cheryl delivers in-house training to the teams which in turn increases & developed key Business to Business sales strategies within these Ft500 companies.
Cheryl also contracted for corporate companies in the USA, Singapore, Dubai, Qatar & Tehran. Despite the language barriers, these companies were able to utilise the strategies and team training to build their company revenue.
Cheryl has turned failing companies into multi-million-pound enterprises. Her Business development strategy allows companies to raise their game through a series of cross-selling and up-selling techniques.
One of her passions is the economic development of marginalized Communities in the UK. The Publication UK Black Links Business Directory was the first publication targeted at the UK African & Caribbean Community. Over 150,000 copies of the publication were distributed annually throughout key areas in the UK, to businesses, libraries, Government bodies Corporate
companies, & customers. With this Cheryl was invited to sit on the board of the Senior Government London Development Agency £10 million BAME grant awarding body, she was also part of the panel which awarded funds to BAME Businesses within the M25 area.
Cheryl has also worked with & is regularly featured on:
- Channel 4 Television
- BBC Radio London, West Midlands, East Midlands Leeds & Manchester
- BBC Television
- Russia Today TV (RTTV)
- The Virgin Group Senior Corporate Event Strategist
Virgin Nigeria Airlines - Met Police Recruitment campaigns and race relations committee
- Ministry Of Defense (MOD)
- London Development Agency -£50million pound funding for BME Businesses
- Sat on the board of the Fair Share funding agency
- Ran as a Political Counselor in her local area
Samantha Bianca Eksteen
(South Africa): Chief Innovation Officer
Samantha Bianca Eksteen’s career is a testament to the power of adaptability, vision, and relentless pursuit of excellence. Beginning her professional journey in education, Samantha quickly distinguished herself as a transformative mathematics educator, later authoring textbooks and teaching guides that redefined learning experiences for students across South Africa. Her early work established the foundation of her passion for empowering others and building systems that deliver real-world impact.
Driven by an entrepreneurial spirit, Samantha transitioned into the real estate sector, where she combined strategic acumen with client-centred execution, successfully navigating complex market dynamics. Her experience across education and real estate sharpened her problem-solving abilities and ignited a passion for business innovation.
Building upon this diverse foundation, Samantha moved into business consulting, providing critical infrastructure development solutions and validating business models for emerging enterprises. Recognizing the need for deeper support for entrepreneurs, she founded Linking Africa, a platform dedicated to coaching and mentoring startup leaders across the continent.
Her leadership in entrepreneurship was further recognized when she served as Country Partner and Host for Startup Awards, amplifying the visibility and success of Africa’s most promising ventures.
Today, as Head of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Samantha channels her multi-sector expertise to lead transformative initiatives that drive growth, foster resilience, and position innovation as the cornerstone of future economic advancement. She is a dynamic ecosystem builder, a connector of people and ideas, and a visionary leader committed to shaping a world where opportunity and innovation know no bounds.
Samantha Bianca Eksteen exemplifies what it means to start with passion, lead with purpose, and inspire with impact.
Radia Mohamed
(East Africa / Sweden / UK): Chief Development Officer
Djiboutian-born, Swedish-raised and UK-based, Radia Mohamed is a multilingual changemaker with over 20 years of experience advancing justice, equity, and empowerment across borders. Her career spans public administration, refugee integration, social welfare, legal advocacy, and civil society. Radia’s passion for justice began early—volunteering as a carer during school breaks in Sweden. This drive to protect the vulnerable evolved into a cross-sector career focused on service, advocacy, and systemic impact. Radia played a critical role in the UK’s frontline COVID-19 response. She was
instrumental in implementing the UK Test and Trace Support Payment Scheme, coordinating with the National Health Service. She also led Brent Council’s Resident Support Fund, a local arm of the UK’s £742 million Household Support Fund, which provided financial assistance to vulnerable households with food, energy, and essential
costs. Her leadership ensured the effective delivery of emergency aid, earning Brent Council recognition for excellence in crisis management.
Radia’s career spans vital roles across local and national government. As a civil servant at Sweden’s National Insurance Agency, she managed work injury claims and income protection nationally. In the UK, she held frontline roles including Debt Recovery Officer, Financial Assessment Officer, and Welfare Rights Advisor, helping residents navigate
complex systems such as Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction, and Discretionary Housing Payments. Her expertise extends to human rights, employment law, and immigration and asylum law. In the UK, she assisted with family reunification cases and facilitated legal pathways to safety. As a Coach and Refugee Integration Officer, she supported refugees
and newcomers with access to housing, healthcare, and employment. Her roles seamlessly blended strategic leadership with hands-on casework. Radia’s advocacy continues through voluntary work. As a Project Coordinator and Caseworker for the Swedish Red Cross Family Reunion Service, she supported refugees through emotionally and legally complex reunification processes. She was actively involved in mentoring women, supporting asylum seekers, and leading community outreach with human dignity at its core. In 2025, Radia founded Élan Vitalé Femme—a wellness and beauty brand rooted in self- love, cultural heritage, and holistic well-being. Through this platform, she champions wellness as a fundamental right and curates inclusive beauty experiences that honour womanhood in all its forms. Radia is especially passionate about women’s health—particularly the overlooked needs of women of colour. Her focus lies in addressing systemic gaps in menopause and reproductive health by advocating for culturally sensitive, inclusive care. She plans to expand this work by pursuing a PhD in Public Health, concentrating on menopause in women of colour and its intersection with cultural, social, and medical factors— including FGM and reproductive health disparities. Through Élan Vitalé Femme and her
future research, Radia aims to challenge norms, influence health policy, and create lasting, equitable wellness solutions. Academically, Radia holds a BA in Law & Criminology from the University of Northampton and an LLM in International Law from the University of Westminster. She also undertook postgraduate legal studies (LPC) at the University of Law, alongside extensive in-house training.
At PACC, Radia will advocate for a sovereign, self-reliant Africa powered by ethical leadership, economic dignity, and diasporic collaboration. Her mission is clear: to build
bridges, amplify underrepresented voices, and ensure no one is left behind in Africa’s global renaissance.
Melony Abrahams
(South Africa) Chief Trade and Investment Officer
Melony has been involved in Events,Trade Relations and Project Management for over ten years, and has been developing companies for world markets. Her vast experience in various industry sectors, including Mining, Fashion, IT,Building and Construction, Oil and Gas , Arts and Crafts, the Marine Sector and many more. Her experience in International Trade fairs and Trade and Investment wealth of knowledge has been garnered in many countries around the world, most notably from Africa, Europe, Asia and the USA.
Sheila Lynn Senkubuge
(South Africa) Chief Diplomacy Officer
Sheila Lynn Senkubuge holds vast experience in both the government and private
sector, from healthcare, to governance as well as business relations.
She holds a bachelor’s degree in Communication Pathology, as well as an MBA in
International Relations and Diplomacy.
Sheila Lynn has held political office in Pretoria (the capital city of South Africa),
where she was appointed as the MMC (member of the mayoral committee/minister
for Roads and Transport) and played an integral role in policy development and
infrastructure development within the city.
She was given an award for the most influential woman in local government in the
SADC region at the 2019 Pan African Magazine awards, and also won a national
award for leadership at the National Women in Transport awards.
She has since taken on various roles, working as a policy and governance director
for a strategic advisory firm, provincial manager on health programs, as well as
advisor and business consultant to various government structures across the African
continent.
Sheila Lynn is an active member of Rotary (an international service organisation)
and has served as President of her Rotary club for 2 consecutive terms.
She is an accomplished public speaker, having completed Speech and Drama, as
well as Effective Communication, through London Trinity.
Her interests outside of the work arena are the arts, dance, drama and music.
At the heart of all she does, and what drives and motivates her, is a vision, hope and
dream of the pursuit of a prosperous, peaceful and united Africa.
Deidre Watson-Meijers
(South Africa): Chief Strategy Officer
Mrs Deirdre Watson Meijers is known as a venture builder, integrated strategist, creative director, projects and innovation consultant, partnership creator, entrepreneur, artist and designer (conceptual, spatial, systems). She obtained her honours-degree Cum Laude from Stellenbosch University with her main subjects being psychology, research and arts, focusing on conceptualisation and considering various social inequalities and societal norms/beliefs
through the design of functional and shelter clothing. Deirdre also holds a Master’s degree (Higher Second) from Wits University in conceptual arts where she investigated creative thinking in business for innovative transformation, (dis)placement and disruption.
Her focus has always been on/in business and how to strategically and creatively solve challenges through innovative ideas and implementing such through various means – i.e., technology solutions and development, spatial solutions (architecture), product design and more. She is known as an executioner and has received various accolades. One was a stint in the UK, spending time at the University of Oxford (UK), and being introduced to the concept of open strategies and design thinking. Accomplished in strategic brand leadership, creative
communication (with various diplomas from Vega School), disruptive strategies and design thinking, she has impacted businesses with her innovative strategic approach.
She has furthermore completed higher learning certificate courses through the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Innovation of product and services: MIT’s approach to design thinking), and Harvard Business School Online (Disruptive Strategy, Global Business and Business Strategy). Advancing people in their purpose is at the core of all she does.
Ayesha Bayat
(South Africa): Chief Entrepreneurship Officer
Disrupting the status quo, one innovation at a time.
Ayesha Bayat is a chartered accountant who defies convention. A disruptive thinker and techpreneur, she thrives at the intersection of business and social impact. Through co-founding DigiYouth Africa, a non-profit (NPO), Ayesha tackles youth unemployment with innovative tech and soft skills training programs. Her focus on empowerment extends beyond the NPO. Vérité, her luxury haircare line, champions sustainable practices and fosters female-owned businesses. Furthering her disruptive spirit, she co-founded mesh Ed, a training and development company that prioritizes a human-centric approach to technology education. Ayesha is a powerful advocate for using technology and innovative thinking to drive positive social change.
Simone Smart
(United Kingdom): Chief Advocacy Officer
A British born Sierra Leonean published book author, editor and ghost writer, Simone Smart is also a voiceover artist who produces and presents content on her YouTube channel on a range of topics, from health to current affairs. She is considered a bit of a grammar geek and is passionate about telling your story in the most polished way possible. Her services also include coaching budding authors and taking a book idea from inception to production, converting it into an audiobook and hosting the book launch virtually or in person.Background
Before embarking on a creative career, Simone worked as a legal professional in the public and private sectors in the United Kingdom. Previous roles included working for the Serious Fraud Office in an investigatory capacity, the British Transport Police Authority in Governance and Compliance and the Commonwealth Secretariat researching International Administrative Law where she was of service to over 2 billion citizens worldwide. She made the decision to transition into the media industry shortly before the pandemic and in September 2021 founded and launched her company Scotty’s Studio.
Dr. Zina
Arinze
(United Kingdom): Chief Wellness Officer
Dr. Zina Arinze (DD) fondly known as “The Reinvention Queen” is an accredited Ministry Leader with CiC Intl. (Churches in the Community International), a multi-award winner, International Transformational Speaker, Lawyer, Best- Selling Author, An International Gender Empowerment Strategist, Radio Broadcaster and PodCast Host, as well as a Reinvention, Leadership and Personal Effectiveness Coach. She is the Founder of Believe and Live Again Divorce Recovery Coaching and Mentoring, a service dedicated to helping women of faith and female professionals swiftly move from “we to me” and heal from the pain of divorce, so that they regain their positive sense of self to reinvent themselves, uncover their God given talents, and rebuild in order to create sustainable income growth for themselves and their families.
Dr. Zina is also the CEO of The Reinvent YOU Experience for Personal Effectiveness and Transformation focused on helping women who are disillusioned and unfulfilled get unstuck to create profitable legacies after a traumatic life transition.
As the CEO and Lead Consultant in CrystalJade Project Management Consultancy, Coaching and Training delivery of powerful Technology bespoke solutions to project teams, small businesses, communities, groups and Individuals.
A fellow and active member of the Institute of Enterprise and Entrepreneurs, Dr. Zina sits on several boards and panels providing astute leadership, expert comment, strategic direction, career guidance and entrepreneurial mentorship to Business schools, SMEs, Not for Profits and Individuals.
In 2018, Dr. Zina, launched The Reinvent YOU! After Abuse Foundation (TRYAF), a charity and women in ministry led organisation of financial professionals and experts passionate about ending the stigma and trauma of domestic violence through financial education and empowerment, thereby providing survivors and their families with the education, resources and signposting needed to get back on their feet financially after abuse.
Dr. Zina sits as the Chair of PAW Africa UK an international NGO focused on empowering African women and young girls in the diaspora impacted by trauma including GBV, Domestic Abuse, Mental Health Conditions, Racism, Modern Slavery and the Socio, Political and Emotional Effects of Covid-19.
As a member of the Black Churches Domestic Abuse Forum (BCDAF) Dr Zina, serves on the planning board and as one of the three trainers responsible for delivering capacity building and domestic abuse awareness training to pastors and leaders in black majority churches across the UK.
Nycholas Partee
(United States): Chief Technical Officer
I have always had an inherent fascination with two things: breaking stuff and technology. As a kid I would often find myself in trouble, because I liked to take things apart to see the technology inside, but I could never put anything back together… Happy Meal toys, my toys, my game system, the TV… my mom’s alarm clock… you see why I got into trouble! Well my mom got tired of it and put into a NSBE Jr. program in 2009 in Columbus, OH, and ever since then I have been focused in tech. I received my first job in IT in 2013, at 17, with DeVry University, then with the Department of IT for Ohio University, and then continued with a few other companies, such as: Eli Lilly and Company, Johnson and
Johnson, Cardinal Health, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, etc. I am currently a Cloud Automation Engineer in the Cloud Engineering Services organization for Eli Lilly and Company. I am honored to be able to help bring the BDPA Cloud Academy to life, and am excited to see the impact we will make.
Dr Kennedy Ramojela
(Botswana): Chief Learning and Development Officer
Dr Kennedy Ramojela is a media practitioner and a researcher. Dr Ramojela obtained his PhD from RMIT University, Melbourne- Australia. He has over 20 years experience in the media space and academia. His research interest is within arts and business development. Dr. Ramojela conducts children’s media workshops in Botswana and runs an annual cultural event called Taste of Africa. He has worked on national, regional and international television productions.
Kevin Williams
(United States/United Arab):Chief Business Intelligence Officer
Kevin Williams is a co-founder and the Chief Executive Officer at kmwa. Kevin is responsible for making all major corporate decisions, managing overall operations, communicating with c-suite leadership, and setting the company’s strategic direction. As the “Face” of the organization, Kevin is responsible for setting the tone, vision, and culture at kmwa.
Kevin has over 20 years of Aerospace, Defense, Government, and commercial consulting experience working in both the continental USA and abroad. Kevin is a Veteran of the USA Army (Retired), with over 20 years of active military service. Kevin holds a BA in Organizational Leadership and Development from Wheeling University (Wheeling, West Virginia – USA) and an MBA from Frostburg University (Frostburg, Maryland – USA), as well as several professional certifications.
Efe Atiyio
(Nigeria/USA): Chief Diaspora Officer
Efe Atiyio is a seasoned media executive and strategic media consultant with a proven track record in the global broadcasting and media industry. With over two decades of experience, Efe has consistently delivered transformational growth for major media companies across Africa and beyond. He is the founder of Pozytv Innovations, a media solutions & consulting company known for its innovative distribution strategies and broad market reach, spanning over 100 million homes in Southern Africa.
Efe is widely recognized for his role in driving the success of Azam TV, one of East Africa’s fastest-growing Pay TV platforms. Under his leadership as Director of Programming, Azam TV grew from its inception to over 500,000 active subscribers within just three years. His contributions in operational management, strategy, and content acquisition were critical to Azam TV’s expansion and dominance in the region.
After Azam TV, Efe transitioned to Kwese TV, where he spearheaded the network’s 3rd party channels strategy, acquisition and management. He was later seconded to Kwese Free TV to lead the evolution from a sports-focused broadcaster into a multi-country sportainment platform. His vision enabled Kwese to tap into new markets and create a robust brand that resonated across Africa. His deep understanding of market dynamics, coupled with his ability to navigate complex regulatory environments, has positioned him as a key figure in the African media landscape.
In addition to his leadership roles, Efe has been a trusted consultant for major global media companies. He has worked closely with The Africa Channel, Rotana Media Group, DW (Deutsche Welle), and Trebel Music, providing strategic insights on content distribution, market entry, and operational efficiency. His strategic direction has helped these organizations extend their reach into new territories while increasing their audience engagement.
Efe’s expertise also extends to global content distribution models, which have allowed him to successfully broker deals that led to the distribution of over 1,600 hours of content across multiple countries. His innovative distribution methods ensure that media content can transcend geographical boundaries while meeting the unique demands of local markets.
Currently, Efe is focused on expanding his influence in the international media sector, particularly within the United States, where he is positioning himself as a thought leader in the evolving landscape of broadcasting and media consultancy. Through Pozytv Innovations, he is driving initiatives that leverage cross-continental partnerships, with a particular emphasis on African and diaspora audiences. His work continues to bridge the gap between Africa and the global media market, with a vision of making African stories, talents, and markets more accessible to the world.
Efe’s extensive network and industry knowledge, combined with his passion for media innovation, have made him a sought-after consultant and collaborator in the global media ecosystem. He remains dedicated to fostering collaborations that enhance the presence of African media on the world stage, while ensuring sustainable growth for the platforms and companies he advises.
Engy Abdel Wahab
(North Africa:Egypt): Chief Regional Officer
Engy Abdelwahab, Founder and CEO of Unica Research agency. The passion that urged her to start this, along with her team, is the existing gap facing startups, either due to their lack of affordability or due to their very special needs. All of this urged them to partner with management consultancies, marketing agencies, field agencies, and supporting organizations to fill this enlighten startups’ and SMEs’ path, providing the best research, training, and consulting practices, locally, regionally, and globally. Regarding her experience, she has 6 years of experience in market research and consulting in MENA region markets, such as Egypt, Jordan & GCC, & in African markets such as Tanzania, as well as American and Western European markets. She conducted consulting & market research for startups, governments, the private sector, and international organizations as GIZ, UNICEF & UNIDO. Regarding macroeconomic strategies, she had the honor of coworking on updating Egypt’s 2030 Sustainable Development Strategy.
She also had the honor of developing an Export Strategy Roadmap for Egypt in the Tomato Concentrate industry. For her education, she has an MA in Economics from Hamburg University and BS in Economics and Statistics from Cairo University – English Section.
Kimani WA Munene
(East Africa:Kenya): Chief Regional Officer
Founder. East Africa TV & Radio Broadcast Executive. Film
Marketing and Distribution. Creative Digital Marketer. Film
Investment for East Africa. Innovator in the Media Ecosystem and
Respected Speaker for Creative Sector
Founder
. Film Marketing and Distribution
Broadcast Management
COMPETENCY
• Digital management ,Creative and Marketing lead for Investment,
Real Estate, Technology and Media sector 2018 – 2022
• Broadcast content distributor from 2003
• Government Policy formulation engagements for Film and
Broadcast Industry from 2006
• Rebranded TVT into TBC in Tanzania, KBC strategy in Kenya 2006
– 2008
• Consulted for the Digital Migration initiative in East Africa.
• Station Manager – Jambo FM Tanzania, KISS TV , CLASSIC TV
Kenya
• Trained the advertising teams of TBC, WBS, Classic TV and KISS
TV
• Content Distribution for Nollywood, and International catalogues
FOX, MBC, Telemundo, ABCN, Bollywood for FTA in East Africa
. Co Founder of a VOD platform 2009
Seydou Dembele
(United States): Chief Growth Officer
Seydou Dembele is a visionary leader, technologist, and advocate for cybersecurity empowerment. With a distinguished 22-year career in the United States Army as a Chief Warrant Officer Four (CW4), Seydou brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his current roles as the Executive Officer of KARMAI Consulting LLC and Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at Rwazi, Inc.
At KARMAI Consulting LLC, Seydou leads a team dedicated to providing top-tier IT cybersecurity consulting services. Through Rwazi, Inc., he leverages his strategic acumen to drive market intelligence solutions for businesses. Seydou’s passion lies in demystifying the complexities of cybersecurity and market intelligence, helping companies unlock their full potential in these critical areas.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Seydou is committed to giving back to the community. He actively supports young adults from disadvantaged backgrounds in gaining access to cybersecurity apprenticeship programs, empowering them with valuable skills for the future. His vision is to foster environments where creativity, innovation, and individual aspirations thrive.
During his military service, Seydou played pivotal roles in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom in Southwest Asia. His exemplary service earned him numerous accolades, including the Joint Meritorious Unit Award, Joint Service Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terror Expeditionary Medal, and Global War on Terror Service Medal.
When Seydou is not advising companies or championing cybersecurity initiatives, he can be found traversing Africa, expanding his network, immersing himself in diverse cultures, and spearheading initiatives to establish STEM Centers in underserved communities. Fluent in English, French, and various African dialects, Seydou embodies a global perspective and a commitment to making a difference wherever he goes.
Seydou Dembele is not just a retired CW4; he is a beacon of leadership, innovation, and service, dedicated to shaping a brighter future for individuals and communities alike.
Dr. Ava Eagle Brown
(Jamaica/UK): Chief Regional Officer Caribbean And Latin America
Dr. Ava Eagle Brown -Multi-award-winning International Speaker, Author, and Transformation mindset business coach.
Dr. Ava Eagle Brown Coaches, Trains, And Speaks Globally To Help Others Shift Their Mindsets To Change Their Lives And Businesses- Ultimately Affecting Their Bottom-Line. She Proves That Your Past Doesn’t Have To Determine Your Future. She Has Mastered Her Mindset And Loves To Help Others Do The Same.
Dr. Ava Eagle Brown Grew Up In Jamaica, Selling Mangoes On Trains As A Child. Today, She Is A World-Renowned Master Coach, A Multi-Award-Winning International Keynote Speaker, CEO, And Household Name. Ava Has Helped Thousands Worldwide, Teaching Them How To Master Their Mindset And Live Their Best Lives.
KEYNOTES
Keynote speaker Ava Eagle Brown is an international coach who works to help others reach new heights and discover their talents, passions and true purpose in order to achieve success
Wakanyi Hoffman
(Kenya/Netherlands): Chief Regional Officer Europe
Wakanyi Hoffman is an artist of life who paints the shades of each day as a storyteller, author, keynote speaker specialized in ubuntu philosophy, a scholar of indigenous knowledge, and narrative weaver of Ubuntu wisdom in AI. She was born and raised in Kenya before embarking on an adventure around the world and has so far lived in 8 countries on 4 continents.
In response to the limited presence of African stories by African storytellers in children’s literature, Wakanyi founded the African Folktales Project, an ongoing open-sourced resource of indigenous wisdom and knowledge for school children. She is a global nomad, currently based in the Netherlands. Her diverse intercultural experiences have enriched her perspective on the human condition, while her commitment to cross-cultural knowledge sharing brings added value to her current academic research position as the Lead of African Sustainable AI Systems at the Inclusive AI Lab, Utrecht University.
Wakanyi sits on many boards, such as the Kenya Education Fund, an organization dedicated to offering high school education to marginalized, gifted children. Additionally, her advisory role at The Contentment Foundation underscores her dedication to global well-being. She is also a valued board member at Seeds of Wisdom, championing indigenous elders’ wisdom and knowledge exchange and is also an impact advisor of Humanity Link, a global digital communication solutions system for marginalized populations. Wakanyi is a curation partner on the Compassion Bot, a new AI revolution in conversations with compassion where she brings the African wisdom of Ubuntu into AI datasets.
Wakanyi is a graduate of University College London (UCL), where her thesis proposed integrating indigenous knowledge into global education systems. She also teaches a summer course at Brooklyn College, and her storytelling Curriculum is used at Presidio Graduate School for teachers training as climate advocates.
Wakanyi is also a mother to four global nomad kids and together with her husband, they currently reside in The Netherlands.
Rebotile Malakalaka
(South Africa): Chief Partnerships Officer
With 19 years of extensive experience across local government and city development, Rebotile brings a wealth of expertise in developing and managing strategic partnerships. Over the course of her career, Rebotile has specialized in the housing, community development, marketing communication, relationship management, events, consulting and transportation and logistics industries, demonstrating a unique ability to drive collaboration across sectors to create sustainable solutions.
Holding a BA in Communication Science, a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Management, and an MPhil in Corporate Strategy, Rebotile combines strong academic credentials with practical expertise. Over the last nine years, she has led high-level strategic partnerships, forging relationships with key stakeholders, public sector agencies, and private sector organizations to advance complex projects and policy initiatives.
Rebotile is recognized for her ability to align diverse organizational goals, navigate the complexities of sustainable development, and deliver measurable outcomes. Her leadership in fostering cross-functional collaboration, coupled with a deep understanding of strategy, local government dynamics and strategic communications, makes her a trusted advisor to senior executives, business leaders and government officials alike.
In her role as Chief Strategic Partnership Officer, Rebotile is committed to delivering innovative solutions that address Pan African challenges and create value for all stakeholders, from ordinary residents to business leaders and policymakers.
Tebogo Modisagape
(Botswana): Chief Regional Officer Southern Africa
Tebby is an active member of the Technical Working Group for the Monitoring, Verification & Enforcement (MV&E) Structure and Action Plan for Cooling Appliances MEPS in Botswana, collaborating closely with the Department of Energy (DoE). She also contributes to the development of energy efficiency codes for the National Building Standards as a member of the Technical Committee with the Botswana Bureau of Standards (BOBS). Tebby also serves as a member of the Global Policy Task Force Work Group, led by the World Green Building Council. She has also mentored participants in the Open Innovation Program, an initiative designed to accelerate GreenTech and Smart Community solutions developed by startups, with a vision for scalable impact. Since 2018, Tebby has been involved in the Southern Africa Innovation Support Programme (SAIS 2), a regional initiative aimed at fostering the growth of new businesses by strengthening innovation ecosystems and promoting cross-border collaboration among innovation stakeholders in Southern Africa. The program has since evolved into the Southern Africa Innovation Collective (SAIC) through BOOST UP, a startup support program that empowers tech-driven startups addressing societal challenges in Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania, and Zambia. BOOST UP equips startups with skills to refine their pitches and become investment-ready.
Advisory Committee
Camila Andrade (PhD)
(Brazil): Advisory Board
Research Fellow to the Institute for Pan African Thought and Conversation (IPATC), University of Johannesburg. Post-Doctorate in Political Science and International Relations at UFPB. PhD in Political Science; Master’s Degree and Bachelor in International Relations.
Currently, I am studying Rwanda, African International Politics, Black Feminisms and Global South.
Dr Khosi Radebe
(South African): Advisory Board
Dr Nomkhosi Radebe is a seasoned Business Strategist and Researcher, seamlessly blending academic rigor with practical business insights. As a dedicated lecturer at Witwatersrand University, she imparts knowledge in Human Resources, Business Strategy, Entrepreneurship, and various Management modules. Her expertise extends beyond the classroom, where she engages in both academic and business research, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and real-world application.
Dr Cyndi Ashley
(United States): Advisory Board
Rev. Dr. Cynthia Oriyômi Ashley aka Dr. Cyndi, an effective publicist, emerging filmmaker, certified in-studio/field producer, director, promoter, author, speaker, mentor, scholar, advocate, media literacy educator, empowerment, and recovery specialist. Also, she’s the Chair of Restoring Our Community Media & Arts Network Foundation and the CEO/President of Total Faith Network Television (TFNTV) & Media Ent., Inc. a Minority-owned and operated independent cable, web & broadcast television network and digital media marketing company with Spiritual-Cultural (TV-Rated G). Urban Media (TV-Rated R) & Mainstream (TV-Rated PG). Dr. Cyndi produces content on varied topics, which impact Arts & Entertainment, Religion, Family, Health, Education, Law, Media, and Business. She’s in pre-production for a docudrama movie of the late Tuskegee Airman Lt. Col. Floyd J. Carter, Sr. She is an award-winning talk show host for TFNTV, which has access to multiple media formats including off/online print, video email, radio, Internet radio, interactive & Internet television, and more. TFNTV live streams, webcasts, and does virtual presentations. TFNTV owns digital channels on all ROKU devices, FireTV and AppleTV; TFNTV is Over-The-Air with commercial & commercial-free content throughout the USA & abroad. All content inspires, educates, challenges, and empower audiences of all ages & cultures – If you have interests to expand your sphere of influence through media, video marketing, cable/webcast to millions of cable network subscriber reaching over 100 million households that includes various online media platforms – Contact the TFNTV office to learn more. TFNTV is an innovative media consortium that thrives on creating, building, strengthening relationships.
Dr. Cyndi is also known for her humility compassion, and transparent demeanor while engaging her audiences to interact with her for their own transformation breakthrough and healing. She uses media pedagogy to build self-esteem, self-identity & to empower personal storytelling. Dr. Cyndi is the founder of four successful annual events and is in good standing as an associate partner with Bishop Tudor Bismark founder of Jabula International Network.
Maria Nakalanda
(Uganda/USA): Advisory Board
After obtaining my MSc. in Engineering, Science, Technology, and Entrepreneurship Innovation Excellence from the University of Notre Dame, I embarked on a career focused on socio-economic transformation and poverty eradication. I have collaborated with social impact NGOs, development partners and major corporations to drive sustainable change, working closely with industry leaders, including Marmon, a Berkshire Hathaway entity, to lay the groundwork for sustainability strategies across North America, EMEA, and India.
Currently, I serve as a Strategic Partnership Coordinator, where I identify, develop, and manage alliances with projects that share our mission for community transformation in any of the 55 countries where our lights bring hope. What drives me is the vision of equal access to opportunities and resources for all, regardless of location. My ongoing work in poverty alleviation extends to Africa: Malawi, Kenya, DRC, North and South Africa, as well as Haiti and the Philippines.
My ultimate goal is to empower individuals with the tools to lift themselves out of poverty, enhancing health, financial stability, and educational outcomes for their children. In the words of Nelson Mandela, “Poverty, like apartheid, is man-made and can be overcome by the actions of human beings.”